Wet weather mistakes could cost drivers up to £5,000

As rainfall continues to affect driving conditions for many across the country, experts are urging motorists to be aware of costly mistakes they may be making.

Car insurance experts at Quotezone.co.uk are warning motorists about the wet weather issues that could cost them up to £5,000.

Rainy weather presents many potential hazards for motorists, including low visibility, flooded roads and the potential for splashing pedestrians.

The insurance experts also say that if motorists choose to drive despite low visibility and something goes wrong, their insurance provider may refuse to pay out.

Waterlogged roads can also make potholes harder to see, and with over nine in 10 motorists admitting to having swerved round potholes to avoid damage to their car,*  it’s important to know how to approach them safely.

Greg Wilson, CEO and car insurance expert at Quotezone said: “Rainy conditions dramatically increase the risk of costly driving errors, and motorists need to be aware of the safest ways to navigate these dangerous elements.

“Motorists could face hefty fines and penalty points for making common wet weather mistakes, including splashing pedestrians, driving on flooded roads and swerving to avoid potholes.

“Potholes are a key hazard to be aware of as the weather deteriorates. The battle against potholes can be felt around the country, and they are often worse after periods of rainy weather. Particularly wet weather can even disguise potholes, so they become even more of a danger to motorists.

“However, many drivers may be unaware that their attempts to avoid car damage from dangerous potholes could see them penalised, as swerving potholes could be viewed as driving without due care and attention.

“Slowing down, allowing at least twice the normal stopping distance from the car in front, waiting for conditions to improve, or avoiding non-essential journeys altogether, could help drivers protect their safety, their finances and other road users.”

Here are some of the ways you could be penalised for driving in wet conditions:

Swerving potholes

Some 93% of motorists have admitted to swerving a pothole in order to avoid damage to their car,* but these drivers could actually be penalised for this – with fines of up to £2,500 if the attempts to avoid pothole damage are viewed as driving without due care and attention.

Low visibility

When driving in rain, be aware of spray from other vehicles making it harder to see and be seen. Dipped headlights are recommended for heavy rain, to help increase visibility. Also make sure the rain hasn’t caused the interior to steam up, as drivers could face fines and penalty points if they don’t have a full view of the road.

Flooded roads

Flooded roads pose significant risks to drivers, with the possibility of them losing control, stalling or even damaging the engine. Even shallow areas of water can conceal damaging hazards like potholes, so drivers should turn around and find an alternative route where possible. Most car insurance policies are unlikely to cover any damage gained from deliberately driving through flooded water.

Splashing pedestrians

When driving through areas with large puddles, it’s crucial to be mindful of other road users. Driving through puddles and splashing other people may result in a fine of £100 and three penalty points. However, in some cases, fines can reach as much as £5,000 for driving without reasonable consideration for others on the road.***

As a price comparison site, Quotezone helps drivers find saving on all sorts of motoring products, such as car, van and fleet insurance.

References:
*Quotezone.co.uk’s survey findings are based on a randomised survey of 1000 respondents from across the UK in December 2025, which represents a margin of error of approximately 5% at a 95% confidence level. Full survey data available here – https://www.quotezone.co.uk/car-insurance/guides/how-to-claim-for-pothole-damage

**https://www.highwaycodeuk.co.uk/penalty-table.html

***https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-67892187

This article is intended as generic information only and is not intended to apply to anybody’s specific circumstances, demands or needs. The views expressed are not intended to provide any financial service or to give any recommendation or advice. Products and services are only mentioned for illustrative rather than promotional purposes.